by Kathy Foster
Kevin Russell, President and Organizer of the Spanish Trail Playhouse in Chipley, was guest speaker at the June 17th meeting of the Chipley Kiwanis Club and updated the club members on plans for possibly expanding the work of the Playhouse.
He said talks have been ongoing with members of the Washington County school system about opening a cultural arts center for the community at the old Chipley High School.
Russell said the Playhouse is now self-sustaining and they want to work toward having summer programs on theatre at the old building.
Stressing the need to get young people involved in the arts, Russell talked about what he saw on a recent trip to Portland, Oregon where they have resued an old building and made it a draw for people interested in the arts and theatre.
Russell has said he feels it is a privilege to water the Spanish Trail Playhouse expand … “Beyond my wildest expectations!”
In its 12th season, Russell said the Playhouse (which is volunteer run) is well supported by the community, but is always looking for volunteers to work as ushers and work backstage. For more information on volunteering contact the Playhouse at www.spanishtrailplayhouse.com